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CamminaForeste - Stage ANEL1
03:01
9.94km
250m
Hiking
Embark on the CamminaForeste - Stage ANEL1, a moderate hike spanning 6.2 miles (9.9 km) with an elevation gain of 831 feet (253 metres). This route, estimated to take around 3 hours and 1 minute, guides you through diverse landscapes, from lush oak and beech forests to wild mountain scenery. You will follow ancient roads and mule tracks, encountering the serene Qualido Pond, a perfect spot to pause and enjoy the views. The trail also traces the gentle flow of the Val di Mello River, offering vibrant scents and colors throughout your journey.
Before you set out, be aware that the CamminaForeste trails are not officially waymarked, so carrying a GPX track for navigation is strongly recommended. The best times to hike this route are generally during spring and autumn, when you can expect the most favorable weather conditions. Plan to find parking options near the trailhead in Val Masino to start your adventure smoothly. This preparation ensures a more enjoyable and stress-free hiking experience.
This stage of the CamminaForeste route offers a unique opportunity to connect with Lombardy's rich forestry heritage. As you traverse the ancient paths, you gain glimpses into the region's past and its deep connection to the natural environment. The trail is situated within the beautiful Riserva Naturale della Val di Mello, highlighting its importance for conservation and natural beauty. It provides a distinct experience within this protected area.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Riserva Naturale Val Di Mello
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
2.00 km
Val di Mello River
Highlight • River
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Tip by
2.77 km
Qualido Pond
Highlight • Lake
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Tip by
3.67 km
Mello Hut
Highlight • Mountain Hut
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Tip by
4.84 km
Rasega Hut
Highlight • Mountain Hut
Traditional cuisine!
Many paths in the surrounding area, also for families. Ascents for the more experienced up to the high altitude refuges, with a glacier view
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Tip by
9.94 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
4.46 km
2.37 km
1.22 km
1.12 km
758 m
Surfaces
6.68 km
1.34 km
630 m
484 m
403 m
245 m
148 m
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Elevation
Highest point (1,150 m)
Lowest point (920 m)
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Weather
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Thursday 7 May
17°C
5°C
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How challenging is CamminaForeste - Stage ANEL1?
This stage is classified as moderate. While it requires good fitness, it's generally more accessible than some of the harder CamminaForeste sections. You should be prepared for a hike lasting around 3 hours with approximately 250 meters of elevation gain and loss.
What kind of terrain can I expect on this route?
The trail follows ancient roads and mule tracks, characteristic of the CamminaForeste network. You'll experience diverse landscapes, including lush forests and natural settings within the Val di Mello. While some CamminaForeste stages might include asphalt, the focus here is on natural paths.
What are the main points of interest along CamminaForeste - Stage ANEL1?
Along the route, you'll encounter several beautiful natural features and huts. Keep an eye out for the Val di Mello River and the serene Qualido Pond. You'll also pass by the Mello Hut and the Rasega Hut, which can be good spots for a break.
Is the CamminaForeste - Stage ANEL1 trail suitable for dogs?
Yes, dogs are generally allowed on trails within the Riserva Naturale della Val di Mello. However, it's always best to keep them on a leash to protect the local wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers.
What is the best time of year to hike CamminaForeste - Stage ANEL1?
The best times to hike this trail are typically during spring and autumn. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with vibrant colors in autumn and blooming flora in spring. Summer can also be an option, but be prepared for potentially warmer weather.
Are there any specific regulations or fees for hiking in the Riserva Naturale della Val di Mello?
The Val di Mello is a protected nature reserve. While there are generally no entrance fees for hiking, specific regulations might apply regarding parking, camping, or waste disposal to preserve its natural beauty. It's advisable to check local signage or the official park website for the most current information before your visit.
Where can I park to access the trailhead for CamminaForeste - Stage ANEL1?
Access to Val di Mello is often regulated, especially during peak seasons. Parking is typically available at designated areas outside the core reserve, with shuttle services sometimes operating to transport hikers further into the valley. Look for signs for 'parcheggio Val di Mello' upon arrival and plan accordingly.
Does this trail intersect with other well-known paths?
Yes, while you'll primarily be on the CamminaForeste - Tappa ANEL1 route, sections of this trail also overlap with the Qualido and Sentiero Life paths. A small portion also touches CamminaForeste - Tappa ANEL2 and Sentiero per Arcanzo.
Is navigation straightforward on this stage?
The CamminaForeste trails are not always officially waymarked. Therefore, it is highly recommended to carry a GPX track of the route on a device like komoot to ensure accurate navigation and stay on the correct path.
Are there any facilities or amenities near the trail?
Within the Val di Mello, you'll find a few huts like the Mello Hut and Rasega Hut, which may offer refreshments or basic services. For more extensive amenities, you'll need to visit the nearby villages outside the immediate reserve area.
What should I bring for a moderate hike on CamminaForeste - Stage ANEL1?
Given its moderate difficulty and the varied terrain, sturdy hiking shoes are essential. We also recommend bringing sufficient water, snacks, appropriate clothing layers for changing weather, and a charged phone with the komoot app for navigation, as the trail is not always officially marked.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
The weather gods were in a good mood today, unlike yesterday. So nothing stood in the way of our planned tour to the Rifugio Rasega. This is located in the middle of a valley, nestled between rock massifs on both sides, some of which easily reach 2800m, at 1200m. If you look closely, you'll see several large and small waterfalls along the way. I visited one of them, like all the others, which is off the trail. Unfortunately, I didn't have time to hike any further through the valley than I did. But I'll do that again later. The rock formations on both sides of the trail are simply breathtaking. The area is very popular with locals and tourists alike, so the route is well-traveled when the weather is good. If you're not afraid of cold mountain water and can handle it well, you can also go swimming here. There are a few opportunities here, and even the hardiest hikers take advantage of them. If you can shift your gaze from the majestic to the small, a lot of things come to light at this time of year. Conclusion: a stunning landscape and a must-see for anyone in the area. Just plan on spending 5 hours or more. You won't regret it.
For me, the Val di Mello is one of the most beautiful high valleys in the Alps. The river that meanders through the valley and jumps over the white rocks and the huge granite walls all around are fantastically beautiful. An easy path leads through. The parallel path is wilder. At the beginning the bridge is missing, which was apparently destroyed. There are several streams to cross. Sometimes it goes on without a trace. Overall a great round.
I don't know if you know the Wasserwegle in the Eyachtal / Black Forest. I love that. But that was Wasserwegle extended version. Just wow.
Today a relaxing walk in Val di Mello with an adjoining bath in the very fresh "Bidet della Contessa". Don't go there on Sunday, at the Rasica refuge they told me that yesterday there were 3000 people 🙈🙈 To park you need a ticket that can be purchased at the infopoint at the beginning of San Martino. Or stay overnight at the Genzianella hotel which for just 100 euros gives you a nice room, an excellent dinner and a fantastic breakfast, as well as the possibility of leaving your car with them
Morning ride in the very popular Val di Mello. Always spectacular landscape in the Italian Yosemity
The first part of the Val di Mello, up to the Rif. Rasega, is a very simple walk in company by the clear waters of the stream of the same name. Beautiful landscapes certainly, but for a nature reserve, frankly it is too anthropized. I suspect that the best part for trekking enthusiasts comes after the refuge, going towards Casera Pioda. I admit that perhaps the experience was a little conditioned by the weather, with a milky sky that did not allow a clear view of the surrounding peaks. So the valley disappointed me slightly, because I had high expectations. Certainly the Val di Mello is more famous, even abroad, among climbers for its granite walls, furrowed by waterfalls. Seeing these colored ants that climb into cracks between the steep walls is impressive! Bouldering is also very popular, due to the many erratic boulders of varying difficulty present in the valley.
After yesterday's thrills, we've decided to close out this beautiful two-day Valtellina experience in Val di Mello. A completely easy route with a constant view of the summit of Mount Disgrazia and several other peaks that border the Sentiero Roma. Of course, to fully enjoy it, you'll have to climb higher than today, but let's be happy with what we've accomplished and the great company. Be warned: if you hike this time of year, it's quite cool because it's in the shade until around noon. I'd also add, for those like me who prefer less crowded areas, that you need a lot of patience given the number of people who flock there. But, of course, the mountains belong to everyone and are meant for everyone.
There is a fee for parking. This should be noted. There are toilets at the information point. There are places to stop for refreshments, park benches and places to swim along the route. The paths to the left of the river are well developed and are the main hiking trails. The path to the right sometimes goes through bushes or across cow pastures.